Learn

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Search and Rescue Unit is an organization of paid and non-paid professionals dedicated to saving lives through rescue, emergency medicine, and safety education. It is our duty to provide the highest level of skill and best possible care to those who call upon us for help. Serving Red Rock, Mt. Charleston, Lake Mead, and Southern Nevada.

Today, seven Mountain Rescue volunteers and four officers responded to Echo Canyon, located near the Mt. Charleston lodge. The objective of the mission was to go door-to-door to determine which residents were still in their homes, which chose to stay, and which chose to evacuate.

The reason for the voluntary evacuation was the report of multiple slides in the area along with an avalanche warning that remains in effect. Rescuers climbed through 5-6 feet of snow to check each home, ultimately taking one man to an established emergency shelter. Rescue teams also helped residents retrieve medications and other personal supplies from their homes and checked in on one man who chose to stay in his residence. The door-to-door evacuation took about four hours.

Multiple news agencies were in the area covering the story. One of the stories can be found here.

Last week, a 31 year veteran of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department celebrated his retirement. While serving as a Police Officer for LVMPD, Sgt. Mike Petricka was a member of the specialized and highly acclaimed Canine and Air Support Units, ultimately serving as Chief Pilot for air patrol and search and rescue. Mike's unparalleled leadership and piloting skills left an unforgettable impression on anyone who had the pleasure of working with him.

It goes without saying that Mike will be sorely missed by all Officers and Volunteers that have worked with him over the years. We wish you the best in all that you do!

A number of years ago, A&E aired an investigative reports special on our Unit. Although personnel and equipment has changed, one thing has remained the same - the dedication and passion of this Unit is insurmountable.